Sharpening/sharpener HELP!!!

[HeavyHanded]

Thanks guys. I understand that the issues I am having with the lansky derive from myself. I think there are just too many variables for me to keep trying to use it. Even freehand with stones I think would be easier once I learned.
The KME is also an option.

HH maybe I'm just stupid...but I can't find your links...

They're under my signature below. Have cleaned up the video section to a few, and most content is applicable to all freehand sharpening. A PDF of the user's manual is available as well. Whatever you choose, freehand is the way to go.

http://www.washboardsharpening.com/

 

[droptrd]

Maybe youre progressing through the grits too soon. The SM has a learning curve to it as well. but its pretty good for maintenance and touchups once you get a feel for it. I recommend adding the ultrafine rods.

 

[JB in SC]

Systems are a crutch, buy a stone and do it the way it's been done for more than 1000 years.

^^^ it takes real skill, but Jason has it.

 

[jinmo]

You might take a look at the block I make, links below. It doesn't do it for you, but makes it a lot easier to freehand a real nice edge. Ultimately freehand is the way to go - own the process and the results.

THIS!

This does two important things (in my mind at least):

1) Teaches you to hand sharpen (while getting sharp knives).
You will gain muscle memory and the tactile feedback will keep you from screwing up too much. I have gotten my sharpest blades off this system. Sharper than lanksy, worksharp and sharpmaker.

2) Keeps cost down.
Sandpaper might be more expensive than stones over a long time period, but for a short time period (or low usage) sand paper is dirt cheap.

Good Luck!

 

[dustd3]

Thanks guys I will be deciding soon on what route to take.

 

[The Lone Gunmen]

I agree Jason, Ive never really thought about it until I read your post haha...its feels good to be "liberated" from systems. It took me a while (years) to work my way up to Japanese Water Stones...Ive never looked back!